In December 2005, Tom Ritchey and Gary Boulanger, directors of Servant Leaders Outreach (takeitslo.blogspot.com), toured Rwanda by mountain bike. A short DVD documentary was filmed to capture their Rwandan experience, the first for both. The trip opened their eyes to the beauty of the people and the need to assist Rwanda in its continuing reconciliation 12 years after the genocide that killed nearly one million people in 100 days.
By February 2006, "Project Rwanda" was established, and a strong board of directors was formed. Despite Africa’s reputation as a needful continent rife with government corruption and political red tape, Project Rwanda has seen opportunities become reality by bringing to life September’s "Wooden Bike Classic" event, intended to connect Rwandans with the outside bicycling world community.
